Icon T7 scan tool

[AJHD]

I'm in the market for a "budget" level bi-directional scan tool. I'm not wrenching in a shop these days, so I don't need a Snap On or something else with all the features of a high dollar unit, including Bluetooth (I don't need it and don't care for it).

I've had my eye on the Autel MX808, especially since Autel added a bunch of di-directional features. But HF has been putting out some scan tools under Icon, which I've heard are based on Launch. The T7 model looks like it might be a good alternative to the Autel 808. It's priced about the same, especially with a coupon or some form of other applicable discount. I'm not concerned about the "TrueFix" software either, I'm more concerned about the scan tool itself and its software.

I know these are new. I'm sure very few people have them. But I wanted to start a conversation and get some opinions.
However, I don't care about HF hate or why I should spend 3x more on something else also made in China. That's not the point of this thread, so take it elsewhere.

I have seen Eric O' with what I believe is the T10 model in a few of his most recent videos. That's beyond my needs and it's a higher-level more expensive model, but more importantly it seems to work, with the exception of learning where everything is and how everything works. Eric normally uses one of the more expensive Autel units in most of his videos and the software is obviously different.

https://www.harborfreight.com/collections/new-tools/t7-professional-wired-diagnostics-tablet-scanner-59582.html

 

[Fedwrench]

What's your budget? There are several less than $1000 tools that do almost everything aside from programming. Launch, Top Don Phoenix, and Thinkcar pro come to mind. I don't have any experience with the T7 but, have you tried to find a non infomercial on You Tube where someone is actually using it? I think Jimmy Making it work uses different lower priced scan tools in some of his videos. I went with the Thinkcar pro and a Top Don Phoenix during some black Friday sales recently. Like I mentioned, they won't do everything (OEM tools are the only ones that do that) but, they do enough for most of the stuff I work on. Good luck in your quest

 

[AJHD]

What's your budget? There are several less than $1000 tools that do almost everything aside from programming. Launch, Top Don Phoenix, and Thinkcar pro come to mind. I don't have any experience with the T7 but, have you tried to find a non infomercial on You Tube where someone is actually using it? I think Jimmy Making it work uses different lower priced scan tools in some of his videos. I went with the Thinkcar pro and a Top Don Phoenix during some black Friday sales recently. Like I mentioned, they won't do everything (OEM tools are the only ones that do that) but, they do enough for most of the stuff I work on. Good luck in your quest

I'd like to keep it around or preferably below $500. That's one reason I was looking at the Autel MX808.

Haven't seen any reviews yet for the T7. There are a few for the T8 and T10.

Honestly, something that has me leaning towards the Icon is I can get 10% off with the HF credit card and 0% interest for 3 months. Which gives me a discount and plenty of time to pay it off in smaller amounts vs just paying for it upfront and paying full price (or buying something else from Amazon or AES Wave).

 

[Theronswanson]

I would go with the Autel solely based on the fact that the company has been around and has a great reputation. The HF is too new IMO. I'm sure it is fine, but im also sure there will be issues to come, because it's something new for them

 

[AJHD]

I would go with the Autel solely based on the fact that the company has been around and has a great reputation. The HF is too new IMO. I'm sure it is fine, but im also sure there will be issues to come, because it's something new for them

Entirely possible. I've thought about it. But then again, HF doesn't manufacture anything.

From my understand they are using Launch software/hardware. Launch is a popular brand. My guess is these units are essentially a rebrand/exclusive version of the X-431 platform, although I could be completely wrong.

For those interested in the "TrueFix" software part of it, again from my understanding they are using Motor which supposedly other brands/OEMs also use for their troubleshooting software.

A Global Leader in Trusted Automotive Data | MOTOR

MOTOR Information Systems, a division of Hearst Business Publishing, is a global leader in trusted automotive data solutions.

www.motor.com

 

[2ndGearRubber]

The general consensus I have read is Icon is using launch software. So you have a lot of options for that. Both domestic and grey market tools.

For that budget, a topdon phenix lite3 gets you bluetooth and the same base software, full bidirectional, and an extra year of updates, for 250 more. That's from AESWAVE. A grey market tool will probably be cheaper for the same base tool. That's a full function bidirectional tool

Notice the T7 doesn't list bidirectional, just service functions, special features, etc. That's right in the autel 808 style tool IMO. If you're talking a legitimate Autel USA 808, not an Amazon grey market tool, that's right around where the icon sits, actually the newer mx900 is probably closer. That said per the aeswave site the mx900 "bi directional control". If this is full bidirectional directional not "service functions and some bi directional" that's a pretty powerful tool for the price. But the way it's written in the summary it's probably closer to the icon and similar budget tools where it's not real/full bidirectional.


Have you used autel or launch based software before? What's the scope of your common use, or is this not something you'll use that often?

 

[AJHD]

According to the HF website, the T7 has full bi-direction controls.

I have a small Launch code reader for basic codes/data and a slightly more advanced Creader VII+ but it doesn't have any real features.
Beyond that however, no. I had a Snap On Solus Edge for a few years.

Launch and Autel "grey market" products definitely have been a concern for me. I would only buy from AES Wave or JB Tools if I went that route. I don't trust anyone on Amazon selling these things. I have no idea what version software or hardware I might actually get or if it's even legit (not fake/counterfeit).

Not concerned with bluetooth as I said. Updates don't really bother me either as outside of when I worked in a shop (which I don't anymore), I never touch anything "new" (pre-2020). It's definitely not a daily or heavy use item. I'm a DIY these days and it's almost 100% going to be used with personal vehicles. I just need something more advanced than what I have (see above) with bi-direction features.

 

[richfinn]

According to the HF website, the T7 has full bi-direction controls.

I have a small Launch code reader for basic codes/data and a slightly more advanced Creader VII+ but it doesn't have any real features.
Beyond that however, no. I had a Snap On Solus Edge for a few years.

Launch and Autel "grey market" products definitely have been a concern for me. I would only buy from AES Wave or JB Tools if I went that route. I don't trust anyone on Amazon selling these things. I have no idea what version software or hardware I might actually get or if it's even legit (not fake/counterfeit).

Not concerned with bluetooth as I said. Updates don't really bother me either as outside of when I worked in a shop (which I don't anymore), I never touch anything "new" (pre-2020). It's definitely not a daily or heavy use item. I'm a DIY these days and it's almost 100% going to be used with personal vehicles. I just need something more advanced than what I have (see above) with bi-direction features.

I use a Global Launch X431 pro 3 s + (I actually bought it from Amazon on the strength of the reviews and it updates perfectly fine, I might just buy a newer one when my 2 years updates are up)

I like it as I can run my Tech Info/YouTube/eBay/Amazon/paypal on the same tablet (I use a TP Link router when I'm on the road)
I don't know if the other brands using Launch software have "code search" (basically it will link to YouTube or Google using the DTC looking for related fixes) I fixed a Jaguar with it the other week (split boost hose)

Also consider Topdon (as per 2nd gear rubber's excellent review)

Or look at the Thinkcar PROS (as per Ivan from PHAD)

They all work pretty much the same (Launch might use slightly better tablets), if the HF unit is Launch that's probably a good thing IMHO

Not trying to lecture you or anything, just sharing my personal experience of working wireless

I had to test an Adblue (DEF) injector under a Truck the other day and it was nice being able to take the tablet under the vehicle to run the actuator test without being tethered to the OBD port.

I also use it a lot under the car/bonnet for ignition coil testing/cooling fan tests/fuel pump tests etc. and battery matching (you sometimes need the info from the battery sticker), also quite handy for VIN numbers when the tool fails to ID the car.

For my money a Wireless/Bluetooth VCI is well worth it for actuator testing (especially if you're crawling under cars like me)

 

[2ndGearRubber]

According to the HF website, the T7 has full bi-direction controls.

I have a small Launch code reader for basic codes/data and a slightly more advanced Creader VII+ but it doesn't have any real features.
Beyond that however, no. I had a Snap On Solus Edge for a few years.

Launch and Autel "grey market" products definitely have been a concern for me. I would only buy from AES Wave or JB Tools if I went that route. I don't trust anyone on Amazon selling these things. I have no idea what version software or hardware I might actually get or if it's even legit (not fake/counterfeit).

Not concerned with bluetooth as I said. Updates don't really bother me either as outside of when I worked in a shop (which I don't anymore), I never touch anything "new" (pre-2020). It's definitely not a daily or heavy use item. I'm a DIY these days and it's almost 100% going to be used with personal vehicles. I just need something more advanced than what I have (see above) with bi-direction features.

So bi directional is a very open term for the t7 and 808 priced tools. Manufacturers will often call them bi directional, but then call the model above them "full function bi directional".

With the 808 line specifically, autel added some bi directional. It wasn't every test, but some. They didn't list it as a "full function" tool as a result. The Manufacturers are pretty coy with this and it seems dishonest IMO. Even on the Icon page the T7 and T8 features list reads differently.

 

[AJHD]

So bi directional is a very open term for the t7 and 808 priced tools. Manufacturers will often call them bi directional, but then call the model above them "full function bi directional".

With the 808 line specifically, autel added some bi directional. It wasn't every test, but some. They didn't list it as a "full function" tool as a result. The Manufacturers are pretty coy with this and it seems dishonest IMO. Even on the Icon page the T7 and T8 features list reads differently.

That's certainly one of the things that has kept me from buying them (any brand). I know it will vary by vehicle what is available or what it can/can't do, but without seeing it there doesn't seem to be any way to know for sure. I hate that.

I wish there was a way to know what this all actually means.

"full access to all systems, including bidirectional controls, resets, relearns, and special functions."

"full bidirectional control OBD2 scan tool. The T7 has the ability to access all systems, read and clear codes, graph live data, perform resets, relearns, special functions, actuator tests, and all-system code scan."

"Functional test and reset features"

Autel does seem to actually list functions available per vehicle and per scan tool model. But how accurate that is in real life, I'm not sure.

Vehicle Coverage | AUTEL

www.autel.com

That said, if I go the Autel route, the MX900 might be a better option over the MX808. It's only about $50 more than the Icon without any coupons/discounts (from AES Wave).

 

[2ndGearRubber]

That's certainly one of the things that has kept me from buying them (any brand). I know it will vary by vehicle what is available or what it can/can't do, but without seeing it there doesn't seem to be any way to know for sure. I hate that.

I wish there was a way to know what this all actually means.






Autel does seem to actually list functions available per vehicle and per scan tool model. But how accurate that is in real life, I'm not sure.

Vehicle Coverage | AUTEL

www.autel.com

That said, if I go the Autel route, the MX900 might be a better option over the MX808. It's only about $50 more than the Icon without any coupons/discounts (from AES Wave).

I agree, I think the 808 will be sunset and the 900 will be their new standard.

The issue with bi directional lists of capability is that it's such a gigantic swath of information that skimming though the list and having any clue as to capability is a level of intelligence I do not possess. There's a lot of cars, with a lot of modules, and a lot of features.



I nearly hung myself with a sunroof issue on an F150 recently, accidently opening it. Snap on, autel, and topdon all failed me. No data, no bidirectional, nothing to try to get this broken sunroof with an inoperative button and cracked plastic guides shut. Of course, with and IDS or whatever they call the new system it may not exist either, it's wired very oddly sort of like a LIN bus. Point of all of this being, who would EVER think to check for sunroof data/controls? Not.me. I'm sure any tool listing any level of bidirectional has a GM vent valve, or other super common examples. This makes it really hard to accurately guess what features features you need to try to find in a tool. If one is looking for any level of bi directional, I'm inclined to always recommend a full function tool. In the case of Autel, maybe the mx900 will have the test you need included. But if you buy a full function tool, if Autel has the test, then you will have it. Just bumps your odds up.



I HIGHLY recommend you buy any Icon tool, because I want a data point on their performance. I'm not really in the market at the moment, and if I were the upgrade unit I would buy or the other tool I would buy aren't autel/launch based. I like their software, and have their tools, but that isn't the direction my leaning currently. So yeah, everybody go buy Icon scan tools so people like me can get data points.

 

[2ndGearRubber]

Dumb question, but with bi directional I always ask - when has not having it hurt you?

IMO if you have a fixed amount of work, only say 20% requires a scan tool, then you need to qualify what % of that needs bidirectional and how much it's hurting to not have it versus just farming that out.

I don't have a J2534 solution. It's too expensive for me to buy and maintain. I would use one like twice a year. Thus I don't own one. I'd love to have one, but the $ don't work out. Sometimes with bidirectional it isn't actually worth while when framed like this. A lot of times just a decent screen and a scalable graph turns something from impossible into easy.

 

[AJHD]

Dumb question, but with bi directional I always ask - when has not having it hurt you?

IMO if you have a fixed amount of work, only say 20% requires a scan tool, then you need to qualify what % of that needs bidirectional and how much it's hurting to not have it versus just farming that out.

I don't have a J2534 solution. It's too expensive for me to buy and maintain. I would use one like twice a year. Thus I don't own one. I'd love to have one, but the $ don't work out. Sometimes with bidirectional it isn't actually worth while when framed like this. A lot of times just a decent screen and a scalable graph turns something from impossible into easy.

I can absolutely see your point. For me, not wrenching for a living and owning older vehicles, my "need" is for sure more of a "want". I just want the capabilities and tools available for something that may come in the future (ie. working on a vehicle that requires a scan tool to do a brake job or oil change or battery replacement, etc.).

I don't need or even want all the bells and whistles, or top of the line. I just want something above a basic "scan tool" that only reads codes and provides basic data PIDs. I also don't have the budget for anything more these days, otherwise I would probably go the Snap On route again.

When I worked in a shop, we always had a Snap On shop scan tool available or later on I had my Solus Edge. Not being the diag guy, I certainly used the bi-directional features few and far between. That work usually went to the master tech or the more experienced guy in the shop anyway.

 

[Wamsutta]

SMA got one awhile back. He says it's made by Launch.

 

[Snapped-off]

Looks neat.

I use VCDS for VAG and a VXDiag GDS2/Tech2 dongle for GM stuff.

Here for more info.

 

[Wrench97]

Biggest issue to me is the secure gateway stuff on Mopars and new Fords, make sure the tool supports it and what the additional costs are moving forward.

 

[richfinn]

That's certainly one of the things that has kept me from buying them (any brand). I know it will vary by vehicle what is available or what it can/can't do, but without seeing it there doesn't seem to be any way to know for sure. I hate that.

I wish there was a way to know what this all actually means.






Autel does seem to actually list functions available per vehicle and per scan tool model. But how accurate that is in real life, I'm not sure.

Vehicle Coverage | AUTEL

www.autel.com

That said, if I go the Autel route, the MX900 might be a better option over the MX808. It's only about $50 more than the Icon without any coupons/discounts (from AES Wave).

It's always in the initial cost with any Launch software device IMHO

1. $500 tool is entry level

2. $1000 tool is pro level

3. $2000 - $3000 tool is a specific regional tool with programming capabilities

I think you are probably looking for a 2 rather than a 1

 

[2ndGearRubber]

I can absolutely see your point. For me, not wrenching for a living and owning older vehicles, my "need" is for sure more of a "want". I just want the capabilities and tools available for something that may come in the future (ie. working on a vehicle that requires a scan tool to do a brake job or oil change or battery replacement, etc.).

I don't need or even want all the bells and whistles, or top of the line. I just want something above a basic "scan tool" that only reads codes and provides basic data PIDs. I also don't have the budget for anything more these days, otherwise I would probably go the Snap On route again.

When I worked in a shop, we always had a Snap On shop scan tool available or later on I had my Solus Edge. Not being the diag guy, I certainly used the bi-directional features few and far between. That work usually went to the master tech or the more experienced guy in the shop anyway.

Gotcha. I think I would be comfortable with not getting a full function tool and sticking to ~$500 and getting some bidirectional. I have an old launch CRP123? at home, works well enough for the super limited stuff I would ever need it for. A decade ago with my limited skills it was enough to get me started.

I feel you on "needs", I am dying to buy the ATS escan, but can't justify it for the work I usually see. It would objectively save me time, but I'm not sure how much. I have enough of a choke-hold on work flow through the shop the monthly 30min this might save me isn't enough to make it worthwhile. Sure would be nice though! Now if I had someone like me when I was in my early 20s as a coworker? I may need the efficiency to prevent losing another ticket in the future due to the longer diag time. That 30min lost could have meant the only brake job in the shop that day goes elsewhere which would be a big hit. A lot of tools pay their ROI like that, getting you back to a brake job or easy money ASAP.

Biggest issue to me is the secure gateway stuff on Mopars and new Fords, make sure the tool supports it and what the additional costs are moving forward.

Right on. CANFD is a must, ethernet or DIOP I suppose are option for most. Even a lot of shops can work around that. CANFD is a few years old now, and the last thing to do is buy a tool you have have for 10 years, which is hardware limited from enhanced data. That said, generic OBDII can always get past that, but you get no enhanced data, codes, or features. But even on a 2025 vehicle, if it's OBDII compliant, you can use a $19.99 code reader to decide if it's a vacuum leak or metering/issue causing the lean code.

Gateways for FCA vehicles will just ***** at you, but you can pull codes and see data. Generic OBDII can clear the engine lamp, nothing else though. Having an autoauth account would be tough as a DIY unless you're confident you're using it at least once a year. Now that autoauth requires current software the DIY guys are going to get fucked anyways. Their use case often doesn't justify the cost of keeping a tool on current software, or just buying a new tool every 24 months with more software on it.

Nissan has gateways coming too.

 

[AJHD]

Biggest issue to me is the secure gateway stuff on Mopars and new Fords, make sure the tool supports it and what the additional costs are moving forward.

That's something I wasn't around to encounter I guess. I had never heard of it until I saw it discussed on GJ.

For me, that's not something I have any immediate need or concerns for, but I'm also sure the future will change that.

Anyway... The Icon T7 does say it supports FCA, CAN and DOIP. Not sure of the specifics on that however.

Supports OBD2, CAN, and DOIP standards and is FCA secure gateway capable

 

[BrandonV]

I would go with the Autel solely based on the fact that the company has been around and has a great reputation. The HF is too new IMO. I'm sure it is fine, but im also sure there will be issues to come, because it's something new for them

Bingo. Happy owner of both a 808 & 908 and I've used them for a boatload of bi-directional functionality. I've even added immobilizer keys and OE remote start modules (things I couldn't even do with a legitimate Honda HDS license & dongle) on cars just a couple of years old.

Entirely possible. I've thought about it. But then again, HF doesn't manufacture anything.

From my understand they are using Launch software/hardware. Launch is a popular brand. My guess is these units are essentially a rebrand/exclusive version of the X-431 platform, although I could be completely wrong.

For those interested in the "TrueFix" software part of it, again from my understanding they are using Motor which supposedly other brands/OEMs also use for their troubleshooting software.

A Global Leader in Trusted Automotive Data | MOTOR

MOTOR Information Systems, a division of Hearst Business Publishing, is a global leader in trusted automotive data solutions.

www.motor.com

It doesn't matter if it's made by a semi-legitimate company for Harbor Freight; the support is never there, either from HF or the original manufacturer. I once had to perform a battery adaptation on a German car in the middle of nowhere, so I bought a Zurich tool (just a rebranded Innova) that claimed, via its functionality checker on the HF website, to be capable of handling the task.

Naturally, it didn’t work. There was no software or firmware update available from HF. Originally, HF even had a broken download link for the software. The identical Innova tool had an update, but it couldn’t be applied since the Innova tool was locked to Innova-branded devices only.

Harbor Freight's customer support was useless, and Innova denied the device even existed. HF also refused to accept a return without charging a restocking fee, despite their advertisement on the website of it being compatible.

Autel & Launch have a proven track record of making scanners and I've gotten support for old Autel devices from a decade plus ago just recently. The Icon device will likely disappear into the ether like the rest of the tools HF offers.

 

[AJHD]

Harbor Freight's customer support was useless, and Innova denied the device even existed. HF also refused to accept a return without charging a restocking fee, despite their advertisement on the website of it being compatible.

Good to know (your experience).

I noticed right away that the HF website does mention a 20% restocking on this item. That's about $100.

 

[oldmanwade]

Looks neat.

I use VCDS for VAG and a VXDiag GDS2/Tech2 dongle for GM stuff.

Here for more info.

I tried a VXNano and I couldn't get the software to connect. any tips?

 

[M635_Guy]

I'd like to keep it around or preferably below $500. That's one reason I was looking at the Autel MX808.

Haven't seen any reviews yet for the T7. There are a few for the T8 and T10.

Honestly, something that has me leaning towards the Icon is I can get 10% off with the HF credit card and 0% interest for 3 months. Which gives me a discount and plenty of time to pay it off in smaller amounts vs just paying for it upfront and paying full price (or buying something else from Amazon or AES Wave).

I have the Autel MaxiCheck MX900 I'd be willing to sell for $400. It has been used twice. I have realized it's too much scanner for me...

 

[Tundra1]

Has anyone sorted out the thousand different models offered on Amazon for the different leading brands? Seems like even autel has 50 options and a dozen autel named sellers. Too many options makes my head hurt

 

[AJHD]

Honestly bud, it's like gambling buying a scan tool on Amazon.

You literally have no idea if any of the vendors are legit or authorized. You have no way of knowing what you're going to receive either. Will it be a China, USA or Europe version? Will it be counterfeit or real? Can it be registered or updated? Does it even work, is there a warranty or support?

Maybe I'm paranoid. But I'm not buying a scan tool on Amazon. I would only buy from AES Wave or some other known legitimate vendor.

 

[f121]

Honestly bud, it's like gambling buying a scan tool on Amazon.

You literally have no idea if any of the vendors are legit or authorized. You have no way of knowing what you're going to receive either. Will it be a China, USA or Europe version? Will it be counterfeit or real? Can it be registered or updated? Does it even work, is there a warranty or support?

This is my experience, my autel from Amazon turned out to be fake. Showed the code number but not the name/description. I kept it behind the seat in the eurovan for emergency use, but it was a pita. Think I got it refunded thou

 

[BrandonV]

Has anyone sorted out the thousand different models offered on Amazon for the different leading brands? Seems like even autel has 50 options and a dozen autel named sellers. Too many options makes my head hurt

I'd only buy the tool from a valid retailer. As for the yearly software updates, I find the cheapest, sketchiest website online and pay with PayPal. If they don't apply the credit to your Autel account, you can get a refund through PayPal, but I've never had a problem. I’ve managed to get the updates for a fraction of what Autel charges.

 

[Tundra1]

Great information. I hadn't realized the Amazon fraud was so blanketed for high end tools. But was starting to get a sense of it from the mess of options and advertising. These posts confirmed it. Hopefully the Icon T series becomes a good economical way to get around it with a solid product line.

 

[Theronswanson]

Has anyone sorted out the thousand different models offered on Amazon for the different leading brands? Seems like even autel has 50 options and a dozen autel named sellers. Too many options makes my head hurt

A guy I know has been having issues with an Autel he bought from Amazon. The seller he bought it from isn't listed on Autel's website as an authorized dealer. Buy one direct from them, or an authorized dealer listed on their website

 

[richfinn]

I bought my Launch X431 pro 3 s, from Amazon and it's been a great tool over the past year (I have another year of updates left) seller was called "ediag"

If you know exactly what you're buying where's the risk? Amazon will refund any defective or fake items!!

Ivan from Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics buys scan tools from Amazon and seems happy enough

 

[QtheGenius]

A few months ago, I was considering getting a Foxwell NT710 or even 810 tool. I've notice no one here has mentioned that brand. Is there a reason for that? I haven't bought anything as I was distracted, but sales season's a commin!!!

 

[AJHD]

I bought my Launch X431 pro 3 s, from Amazon and it's been a great tool over the past year (I have another year of updates left) seller was called "ediag"

If you know exactly what you're buying where's the risk? Amazon will refund any defective or fake items!!

Ivan from Pine Hollow Auto Diagnostics buys scan tools from Amazon and seems happy enough

For the record, I'm not saying you can't or that it's not possible. I'm simply saying it's a gamble.
Then again, both options have their pros and cons.

Brand and features and all of that aside, buying a scan tool from HF at least to me is different than buying from Amazon.
I know exactly what I'm buying and who I'm buying it from. I don't have to guess or hope or question anything.

Should I have an issue, I can return it to a physical brick and mortar store and physically interact with a human being, or at worst I can call/email their support line. There is a 20% restocking fee however should there not be an issue and I'm simply "not happy" with the purchase.

I also feel like buying a hand tool whatever it may be on Amazon is different than buying sensitive expensive electronics/diagnostic equipment. Amazon is not what it used to be. Once the marketplace/3rd party vendor racket became a reality things have continued to change, and not always for the better.

 

[M635_Guy]

I'd only buy the tool from a valid retailer.

Yeah - there was so much "noise" on Amazon that I was distrustful of buying from them. I got my Autel from NAPA - picked it up in-store.

 

[richfinn]

For the record, I'm not saying you can't or that it's not possible. I'm simply saying it's a gamble.
Then again, both options have their pros and cons.

Brand and features and all of that aside, buying a scan tool from HF at least to me is different than buying from Amazon.
I know exactly what I'm buying and who I'm buying it from. I don't have to guess or hope or question anything.

Should I have an issue, I can return it to a physical brick and mortar store and physically interact with a human being, or at worst I can call/email their support line. There is a 20% restocking fee however should there not be an issue and I'm simply "not happy" with the purchase.

I also feel like buying a hand tool whatever it may be on Amazon is different than buying sensitive expensive electronics/diagnostic equipment. Amazon is not what it used to be. Once the marketplace/3rd party vendor racket became a reality things have continued to change, and not always for the better.

We don't have HF in the UK, I 100% trust Amazon nowadays, I've had two occasions when I had to raise a complaint (both quality items shipped from the USA unfortunately), simple web chat and instant refunds for both items which I guess is based on my reputation as a Prime customer???

China/Asia oddly is never a problem on Amazon, it always rocks up and is as described within a few days

I do still buy USA stuff but I'm a bit more wary and distrustful of any unknown sellers

I'm OK with 50% of the "bricks and mortar" price that Amazon offers on what I consider consumable goods

 

[2ndGearRubber]

We don't have HF in the UK, I 100% trust Amazon nowadays, I've had two occasions when I had to raise a complaint (both quality items shipped from the USA unfortunately), simple web chat and instant refunds for both items which I guess is based on my reputation as a Prime customer???

China/Asia oddly is never a problem on Amazon, it always rocks up and is as described within a few days

I do still buy USA stuff but I'm a bit more wary and distrustful of any unknown sellers

I'm OK with 50% of the "bricks and mortar" price that Amazon offers on what I consider consumable goods

I think the concern is less about receiving a brick in the box rather than a scan tool, and more about incomplete or illegitimate software which may not be immediately obvious.

 

[richfinn]

I think the concern is less about receiving a brick in the box rather than a scan tool, and more about incomplete or illegitimate software which may not be immediately obvious.

Amazon gives me what I consider a reasonable amount of time to return a non functional item (in the UK at least). I don't agree with everything they do as a business, However.

For me so far it's been a minor gamble with fairly decent odds of getting unobtainable stuff from other regions at a fair price

I do love AES wave stuff and have bitten the bullet once or twice, but you wouldn't believe what it costs to ship stuff over here and then pay another 20% to the British Government

 

[M635_Guy]

Honestly bud, it's like gambling buying a scan tool on Amazon.

...and eBay too. This is exactly why I bought my Autel from NAPA.

That said, the (relative) simplicity of the Icon software or something like the Innova 7111 is attractive. I honestly get a little lost in the Autel SW, and my handheld/non-tablet Innova scanner is simpler. Frustrating, but simpler. The integration with FIXASSIST is pretty weak, unfortunately - if you have more than one code it only gives you recommendations/etc. for the first one. I actually called their support a couple times to see if there was a fix. All the offered was an apology.

 

[M635_Guy]

I tried to use the Autel today to see if the alternator on the family Mazda3 is bad.

It's a "me" problem, but that thing just mystifies me. I need something that's easier to use

 

[2ndGearRubber]

All you can really tell with a scan tool, and not all may be available:

1) Is a charging fault set? Codes may not even exist depending on the car.
2) What is current system voltage?
3) What is commanded/target/set point voltage? For instance a Kia may charge at 12.3v idling and be 100% as designed.
4) What is the commanded duty cycle/output/whatever? How hard is the PCM trying to command this alternator? Going 100% wide open with no charging? Does the PCM even know there's a problem? Is the PCM even who is in charge of the alternator?


Other than that you'll need to do a basic voltage drop/big test light test on the B+ cable and the block, and check inputs into the alternator on the electrical plug.

Yesterday I had a dead Rover, bad alternator. B+/B- good with big *** test lamp, good enough it should charge something. Single wire alternator, LIN bus communication, scope shows a pattern of "something" which look like good data packets. Replace alternator.

Then an Avalon, also bad alternator. Big *** test lamp confirms cables/block acceptable, 4 pin connector. 1 constant B+ feed, one is switched, both good. Another for the warning light, don't really care about that. The last is a PWM signal at key on engine off, pulls down to ground upon starting which I assume is full output. Replace alternator.


The problem learning a scan tool, is you/me/nobody knows what data is inherently in it, or how to find it. So you try to find the info you can and do with it what you can. I didn't know the LIN bus on the Rover was 0-12v, or ground was full output on the Toyota. But looking at charging commanded output, actual output, and duty cycle to the alternator made it more apparent how the system was designed. The voltage plunged after startup so I wasn't convinced to bother doing a voltage drop on the alternator cable, it was clear there was absolutely zero output. I always do that test engine off, so a charging alternator won't fool me the cable is bad.

Typically, typically, if the red battery light is on, you have some issue. If it isn't, the PCM is generally okay with the charging system function. But the toyota had no charging system light on at 11 volts at idle. So who knows.

 

[Wrench97]

I tried to use the Autel today to see if the alternator on the family Mazda3 is bad.

It's a "me" problem, but that thing just mystifies me. I need something that's easier to use

That's not the right tool to test a alternator, if you want to see charge cmd rate and actual output rate yes but, that's not a thing on a Mazda 3.